Camera



F. G. KlRBY r- T'AL 2,172,283

-QAMERA i Filed Dec. 28, 1936 6 Sheets-Sheet l Sept. 5, 1939.

INVENTORS FIPA/WF 6./f//8Y ARTHUR E. IRV//VG BY (211A ATTORNEYS Sept. 5, 1939. F Q KlRBY ET AL 2,172,283

` GAMERA Filled Dec. 28, 1936 6 Sheets-Sheet 2 "7"- INVEN-roRs FRAN/r a. /r/Ry ARTHUR E. fnv/NG @IMM ATTORNEYS Sept 5, 1939 F. G. KIRBY ET u. 2,172,283

CAMERA Filed Deb.. 28, 1936 e sheets-sheet s \IFRAN/f 6. /f/RBY ARTHUR E. I/PV//VG ATTORN EY y 51 1 8 S c sa e w; s .m Q R 7 6 1n\ ...M 1 m lill llo o A V Ii w m 2? l m w m v un HIM* wu M 3 L Al u I HN u hlxm O ,p IM M Hl IH l l \|\n|| m TI; 1 .r l v0 W Il. m mx @m Sept. 5, 1939.`

F. G. KIRBY EI' AL CAMERA 6 Sheets-Shea?l 4 Filed D80. 28, 1936 III Il lNVENTORS FRAN/f 6. /f/RBY ARTHUR E. [RV/N6 ATTORNEYS Sept. 5, 1939. F. G. KIR-BY n u.

ouah@ Filed Dec. 28, 1936 6 Sheets-Sheet 6 banni Puk Abba.

INVENTORS FRAN/f G. lf/RBY l ARTHUR E. [RV/NG BY y ATTORNEYS .0nd, L

Patented Sept. 5, 1939 n y UNITED. STATES PATENT OFFICE I i Y 2,112.28: f

p x CAMERA v 4Frank G. Kirby, Long Irland City, and Arthur E. Irving, Brooklyn. N.' Y.;fsaid Irving assigner to said Kirby Appliance December 2s, 1936, serial Ne.117,73o :somma (ci eis- 37) This invention vrelates to cameras and more are confined so as to fall only on a predetermined particularly to cameras adapted to take a pluarea of a light sensitive surface; rality of photographs successively on a light Figures 7 to 7h inclusive are diagrammatic responsive surface movable behind the lens. Y views showing the sequence followed in taking a' One object of the present invention is a. camseries of photographs on a plate; 5 era'of the character described in which a plu- Figure 8 is a fragmentary view showing a rality of pictures may be taken on a single plate. modified form of the invention inwhich the plate Another object of the invention is a camera in holder is automatically returned to initial posiwhich a plate is automatically moved between tion in the cycle of operations; l0 a pluralitycf positions behind the lens. Figure 9 is a fragmentary view showing a porl0 A further object of the invention is a camera of tion of the light sensitive surface upon lwhich the character described in which the movement the first exposure is made; and of the light sensitive surface is automatically Figure 10 is a view showing a wiring diagram controlled by the shutter actuation. of this invention. Y e 1 It is also an object of the invention to provide Referring first to Figures l and 2, a housing 15 `a. camera having shutter actuating devices and or box is shown'which is preferably of generally devices to move a iight sensitive medium in which rectangular shape and comprises the side walls the movement of one such device is dependent Il and ii, the top and bottom'walls Il and 2l, upon the completing of the movement of the respectively, the front wall 22 and the rear wall other such device. 2l. Preferably the case il-ZI is sealed against 20 The invention also seeks an electrically operthe admission of light. ated shutter in a camera. On the front wall 22 is mounted in any con- The invention also resides in the details of venient fashion a shutter and lens housing 26, construction by which an operative camera of the forward end of which is formed, internally,

25 the character described is first produced and with a cylindrical guide surface 2l within which 25 then operated. slides a tubular carrier 20 for the lens system 30.

These and other objects of the invention and Movement of the lens for focusing is readily efthe means for their attainment will be more fected by, say, a rack and pinion mechanism 3| apparent from the following detailed description, or the equivalent actuated by the focusing knobs taken in connection with the accompanying 32. A 30 drawings illustrating one embodiment, by which Within the housing 26 (Figure 4) and conthe invention may be realized, together with certrolling. the passage of light from the lens to an tain modifications thereof, and in which: opening 3l in the front wall 22 of the camera box Figure 1 is a view of the camera of this invenis the shutter mechanism which may be of any tion with the rear cover removed toshow details convenient kind, located within a case 35. A 35 of construction, including the plate holding frame :OmInOn type 0f Shutter mechanism may be at loading position; adopted. One such mechanismcarries on the Figure 2 is a transverse sectional view taken outside of the shutter housing a Cylinder 3T in the plane indicated by the line 2-2 of Figure having a PiStOn 39 movable therein to actuate 1 and looking in the direction of the arrows; the shutter 36 for time exposures, the upward 4o Figure 3 is a view on an enlarged scale showing movement thereof Opening the shutter and the the plate holding frame and its associated mechdownward movement Closing it 388111 A Second msm at its last position; l cylinder 43 has a piston I5 therein which actuates Figure 4 is a transverse, vertical, sectional the shutter for instantaneous exposures view taken in the plane indicated by the line thTo ene afnfmnuafl .opelinstf use shutter for 45 4-4 of Figure 2, looking in the direction of the eriauggseo; tuggrncrfmtguhgef al'ljQWS and Showing the shutbe: operatmg mech' be described, performing theyarious operations amsm and its associated parts' contemplated herein, a hand actuated plunger Figure 5 is a fragmentary vlew Showing Siendu is iuustreted adapted te aetuate e beu crank u so 1mg devices which give, at a glance. the DOSltiOn normally retained in operative position by its 0f the light Sensitive P18-te With respect t0 the own weight. A spring 58 connects the bell crank lens. 4! with the plunger 3! of the time exposure cyl- Figure 6 is a fragmentary view showing the inder 31. The spring is a, link to the. shutter masking tunnel whereby light rays from the lens control 38 to allow said control to operate freely without moving the beu crank, when the instan- Y taneous shutter control is operated by the soleon this shaft is a lever 40-4|, the arm 4|) of which is connected by a lost motion 'connection with the armature 42 of solenoid 44. The solenoid 44 is energized by an electrical hand button, illustrated, at 46, in the wiring diagram of Figure l0. The solenoid armature 42 is normany maintained in an elevated position by rotation of the shaft 38, in a clockwise direction, by the spring 54 connected between the arm 48 and a xed point on the housing. Rotation of the shaft 38 in a counter-clockwise direction rotates an arm 53 fixed thereon, also in a counter-clockwise direction.

The arm 53 is connected by a spring 52 to the piston 45 which effects the operation, i. e., openin`g and closing, of the instantaneous shutter. When the solenoid 44 is energized, the lever dil-4| is rocked in a counter-clockwise direction thereby effecting opening and closing of the shutter 36 during the rst portion of its stroke, and, in the remaining portion of its stroke, effecting the momentary closing of a so-called micro-switch 59. Shutter operator 45 travels a certain distance, opening and closing the shutter, and meets a stop. The spring 52 stretches to allow arm 4| to continue its upward stroke. It must be-kept in mind that the so-called microswitch 59 operates, after the shutter operates, each time the hand button 46 is pressed. To permit this movement, a pivoted detent 56 on the arm 4| is broughtintol contact with a leaf spring 58 or other circuit closing element of the "micro-switch" 59 or its equivalent as the arm di moves upwardly and spring 52 stretches, to momentarilyclose the various circuits hereinafter to be discussed in connection with the operation of the apparatus. When the solenoid armature has completed its downward movement, the detent is clear of the switchactuator 58, so that the circuit closer 58 is again open. The hand button 46 may then be held closed or immediately released. If held closed, the solenoid 44 remains energized but the operations described are complete and remain uneiected. If the hand button 46 is immediately released, the solenoid is deenergized and permits the arm 4| to fall, the

pivoted detent 56 riding past the actuator 58. y

As will be understood, when the armature returns, the switch 59 is not effected because the arm 4| is permitted to move downwardly without interference with or from the actuator 58 due to the pivoted detent 56 riding past the actuator 58 without hindrance. These actions reset the mechanism, so far described, for another operation.

Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, thereis disposed within the camera box proper, and proximate the sides |4-I6 thereof, a pair of channelled guides Str-6|, each conveniently secured at the one end to the top .|8 and at the other end to the bottom or base 20. A frame is slidable vertically -in the guideways 60'6|. This frame, referred to herein as the vertical frame, is shown as comprising two vertical end frame members 63464 adapted to slide with minimum friction up and down the respective guideways 60 and 8| and connected on each side. both above and bey I0- 12, on each side is a plate guide 13, immediately behind which and suitably spaced therefrom, are blocks 14 carrying springs 15 yieldingly holding a ground glass frame 19 which snaps into the position of the photographic plate when the plate holder 11 is removed, to be in proper position for focusing. The space between the guides 13,` at the top, is open to permit insertion and removal of the, plate holder 11 and plate 18. The plate holder 11 is held in position against the front frame 10 by means of the tension of the leaf springs 15 against the ground glass frame 19, which slips to the rear of the plate holder when the plate holder is inserted. An upright member 16 on-each side completes the sides of the horizontal frame.

Carried on the front and rear frames 1li-12 are rollers 80, which run on the tracks formed by the vertically movable frame guidesl 66 Iat the bottom, and bear against the guides 61 at the top. Conveniently, the rollers 80 are eccentrically mounted to permit an adjustment of the frame whereby the plate is properly positioned foi` exact vertical and longitudinal movement before the lens opening.

The plate holder 11 rests upon supports in the form of sleeves 80| extending between the bottom ymembers 66 of the frame members of the horizontal frame.'

To permit insertion and removal of the film` holder 11, the top |8 of the box is formed with an opening 8| (Fig. 3) closed by a door 82. The' opening 8| is so disposed as to enable the film or plate holder 11 to be inserted and removed at only the initial position of the horizontally movable fram'e. I

While the interior fof the box2-24 is preferably dark because the box is sealed against the admission of light, an additional light excluding instrumentality is provided for the horizontal frame by mounting a generally rectangular light shield 83 (Fig. 2) in register with the opening `in thev front frame member 10 of the horizontal frame. This light shield 83 is conveniently pro- V'vided with a flexible edge 84 yieldingly contacting with the rear surface ofthe front wall 22 so that it may slide thereover as the horizontal frame progresses from position to position and at the l same time excludes all light from the nlm holder.

Reference should now be had to Figures 7 to 7h. It is` contemplated in accordance with this invention that a plurality of pictures be photographically impressed upon the sensitized plates in a precise and definite manner. To this end, it may be considered that the plate is divided into nine subdivisions as illustrated in the lower' right hand corner of Figure 7. The plate is therefore moved between nine different positions to-bring these respective nine spacesseriatim before the lens.y Thus in its initial position, the plate 18, with respect to the vlens indicated by the broken lined circle 3l, occupies thezposition of Figure 7 75 as 'shown by Figure 7b. The horizontal'frame is' then'dropped vertically one space so'as 'to bring space No. 4 before the lens, as illustrated in Figure 7c. Similar movements to those previouslyy described with respect to Figur 7, rla. and 7b, but in the opposite direction indicated by the arrows or toward the rightas viewed, to cause the sequential making of the exposures and 6, at which time the horizontal frame is at the right hand side,`as viewed in Figures 1 and 7,

when it is again dropped so that it assumes the position indicated in Figure 'Uwith space No. 7 before the lens. Seriatim movement of the horlzontal frame in the direction of the arrow 05 in vFigures 'la and 'Ih results in the sequential exposures of spaces 0 and 0, when the plate holder 11 and with it the horizontal frame, is in position to be automaticallyreturned to the first position of Figures 1 and 7, when the plate holder is in register with the top door 02, permitting the plate holder to be removed from the horizontal frame. y y l In addition, it is deemed necessary to confine the light rays from the lens to the particular space on the photographic plate on which the picture is to be taken, and to this end there is mounted on the shutter carrier a masking tunnel 00. The masking tunnel 00 is'illustrated as carried on the frame or casing 35 for the shutter and extends through the opening 34 in the front wall 22 of the camera box. It is rectangular in cross section, having greater height than width so as to concentrate the light on any one of the areas,

Nos. 1 to 9, say, of the plate 10 of the desired shape and size. It is thus xed in position while the light shield 03 moves relative thereto.

As a means for identiilcation of the subject, it is desirable to place an identifying number 01 on the plate or iilm. Such a number may be photographically reproduced on the plate if a number is held in a ilxed position over the head of the subject on the ilrst exposure. As the image will be inverted with respect to thevobject, the number will, in this event, appear at the lower left hand corner of the photographic plate, that is space No. 1, as shown in Figure 7, and in order that the identifying number will appear on the rst exposure only, this series oi! space No.1 is longer, as shown, and is uncovered, in theilrst position, by a iiap 00, Figure 6, which is mechanically opened when the frame 11 is in its first position and closed when the frame is in all other-positions. The rear or inner end of the masking tunnel is open. At two corners thereof and 4preferably the lowermost corners, vthere are formed clips l! between which the ilap 00 is pivoted. On the ilap 00, at one side, is a counterweighted arm 00 which normally occupies the dotted line position of Figure 6. When, however, the frame moves to the position indicated in Figures l and 2, a cam or detent 0| on the light shield 03 engages and moves upwardly the counterweighted arm," so as to throw the ilap to the position shown in Figure 6 and unmask the bottom space on the plate so that an identifying number 31 may be photographically imposed upon the plate 18. After the ilrst exposure,lthe movement of the horizontal frame carries the detent 9| away from the arm 00 which then falls aided by counterweight 32 and closes the hap 00 again.A

Traversng mechanism Movement of the horizontal frame from side to side across the lens within the vertically moving frame is eiected by a motor 03 (Figures 1 and 3) carried on a platform 34 suspended as by arms 00 from the transverse bottom guide members 00 of the vertically moving frame. (Figure 8) of this motor 03 is adapted to turn through 180 during each operation of the motor; always in a clockwise direction, as viewed in Figure 1. An arm 91 on the shaft 00 carries a stud 35 on which is pivotally mounted the end of a con- The motor shaft 00 nectlng rod 90, the opposite end of which is free.

Intermediate its ends, a sleeve 00 is pivotally connected to one arm |00 of a lever |00-|0|, which is pivoted intermediate its ends on the lower frame member 66 of the horizontal frame. The other arm |0l of the lever is connected by a lost motion connection to a pin |02 on the frame members 10 and 12. Preferably as shown in the drawings, the pivot |03 of the lever |00|0| takes: the form of a transverse shaft journalled in the respective guides. 66, to the outer end of which the arm |00 is xed, while identical lever arms 0| are xed on the shaft |03, so that as the lower end of the arm |00 is rocked about the pivot |03, theA upper ends of the arm |0| are moved proportionately in the opposite direction.

On each side of the pivoted sleeve 00 on the rod 90 are coil springs |00, |00, respectively, the

- movement of which toward the extremity of the rod is limited by a pinned washer |01, the inner ends of the springs being free to move on rod 90. As rod 98 is periodically reciprocated, springs |00. |00 are alternately compressed producing potential thrust ilrst on one side of sleeve 00 and then on the other side thereof.

Also carried conveniently with the platform 30, is a solenoid |I0 to the ,armature of which is pivotally connected an arm or lever I I2, the other extremity of which is pivotally connected to the guides 60 as at ||3. On the lever arm ||2 is a roller serving as a boss or pawl ||0 adapted to be received in one of three recesses H0. IIB and ||1, formed in the bottom frame member of the horizontal frame, these recesses III, ||0 and ||1 being -so positioned that when one of them, say the recess H5, engages the pawl Ill space or 6 or 1 is immediately behind the lens and similarly when o tion to engage the pawl Ill, a space 3 or 4 or 0 is before the lens.

Briefly, this portion oi' the device operates as follows: Each time the hand button 00 in wiring diagram Figure 10, is operated, the solenoid I0, Figure 4 is energized causing, during the ilrst part of its stroke, the shutter to operate and during the completion of the stroke' of the shutter-arm 0| results in the momentary closing of switch 00, Figure 4, and the energization of the solenoid ||0, Figure 1, thereby momentarily moving the lever arm ||2 downwardly and withdrawing the pawl ||4 from the recess, say, H0. The arm 01 on motor shaft 9i, being to the right as viewed in Figure 1, the rod 90 has passed through sleeve 30 compressing spring |00, and the potential thrust so produced will cause lever arm |00 to move to the right and move the horizontal frame toward the left, as soon as released from detent ||4, the solenoid H0 immediately being deenergized due to momentary function of switch 59. In consequence, the spring ||8 draws up the lever arm ||2 and allows the detent ||4 to enter the next recess, say, I6, thereby positioning the frame so that one of the plate portions or spaces 2 or 5 or 8 is before the lens, etc.

The horizontal frame moves against fluid pressure. This may be accomplished by, say, a cylinder |22 mounted on the upper guide 51, the piston rod I 23 ofwhich is connected to an arm |24 on the horizontal frame. In known manner, therefore, movement of the plunger |23 against fluid pressure in the cylinder |22 serves as a hydraulic check to slow down or cushion the motion of the horizontal frame under the action of either the spring |05 or |06 when it is released for expansion. There being, by design, enough potential thrust in spring |05 to carry the horizontal frame completely to the left, the pawl ||4 need only to be removed by the energization of solenoid I0 after an exposure, to allow the horizontal frame to take, successively, as the case may be, positions 2 or 3, or positions 8 or 9.

After the horizontal movement of the horizontal frame. (in taking a series of pictures in the lower row) is completed, the vertical frame 63, 66, 61 moves downwardly one step to bring the,next or middle row of imaginary spaces 4, 5 and 6 on the plate 18 in register with the lens 30. It will be noted, particularly in Figure 3, that each side member of the vertical frame is recessed or otherwise formed to receive rollers |25,bearing on the channels 60 and 6| and 'with ratchet members |26 formed with downwardly facing notches |21, |29 and |29, one pair of notches, that is, one notch on each side, corresponding to a position of the vertical frame when a horizontal row of imaginary spaces on the photographic plate is in register with the lens opening. Cooperating with these notches is a reciprocating plunger-like pawl member |30 (Figure 1) one on each side, having a bevelled end |3| for ready insertion and removal from the respective correspondingly shaped notches. Each pawl |30 is actuated by a bell crank |32 pivoted, as at |33, say, on the guide 6|. The bell-crank on the left is moved by a solenoid |34, while the pawl on the right is withdrawn from the notches on that side by a similar bell crank arm |32 pivoted at |35 and actuated by the solenoid I 36. Both pawls |30 normally tend to enter ratchets by virtue of the spring |31 which rotates the bell crank about its pivot and tends to press the pawl against the side of the vertical frame.

Referring to Figure 1, on the left side of the vertical frame (as viewed in Figure 1) are two micro-switches |38 and |56 adapted to be closed by the Vhorizontal frame when at its leftmostv (as viewed). After the first and second pictures in the lowermost rowhave been taken, the horlzontal frame has progressed toward the -left side of the vertical frame, because the solenoid '||0 has been energized each time the shutter operated. `Upon completion of the second movement bringing space No. 3 behind the lens, a circuit closure such as a micro-switch |38 is closed to complete a circuit including the solenoids' |34 circuit at this stage. "Iherefore, immediately after the third picture is taken, and after the stroke of the shutter arm 4| as closed the switch 59, solenoids |34 and |35 are energized and their respective armatures draw catches |30 from notches |21 and allow the vertical frame to drop. This circuit, being immediately deenergized by the immediate opening of the switch 59, as has previously been explained, the pawls |30 are again urged by their springs |31 against the vertical frame and slip into the notches |28 next above thus bringing the vertical frame to rest and aligning the plate with the center row of imaginary spaces.

During the dropping of the frame a detent" |39, Figure 1, carried thereby operated switch closer |40, closing switch |42 resulting in closing the motor circuit and causing the motor 93 to run and turn the motor shaft 96 in a clockwise direction through whereupon the circuit is automatically broken, bringing the motor to rest.

This movement of the motor shaft 96 brought arm 91 to the left of the shaft 96, causing the rod 98 to slide through sleeve 99 and resulting in the compression o f the spring |06 producing potential thrust on the right side of the arm |00.

Also, in dropping, the vertical frame carried cam block |4| with it downwardly thereby opening switch |43 to prevent a circuit through sole- `noid |34 and |36 and switches |38 and 59 the switch |38 remains closed until the horizontal frame moves to the right.

Further, in dropping, cam block |41 is carried with the vertical frame into position yto operate the switch closer and close switch |40 and place it in readiness to once more form a circuit through the solenoids |34 and |36 when the horizontal frame arrives at its extreme right position and closes switch |49 upon arrival.

'Ihe potential thrust now being upon the right hand side of arm |00 as viewed, and all the cir- ||4 allowing the horizontal frameI to move one space to the right. As before, the residual potential thrust is sufficient to cause the horizontal frame to' move one more step to the 'right after the succeeding exposure has been made to occupy the extreme right hand position, as viewed.

'Arriving to the 'extreme right hand position, the horizontal frame closes the switch |49, which in conjunction with switch |48, previously described as closed through the action of the vertical frame in dropping the first time, the circuit through solenoids |34 and |36 will be made upon completion of the sixth exposure by the operation of switch 59 to allow the vertical frame to drop to the lowermost position, as shown in Figure 3, although the horizontal frame at this point in the cycle is to the right.

The drop of the vertical frame is retarded and controlled by hydraulic checking means shown as two'fluid lled cylinders |60 into which pistons |6I carried with the vertical frame extend.

When the vertical frame drops the second time, a detent |50 operates a switch closer |5|, closing switch |52 in the motor circuit to cause the motor to run through 180. The resulting position of the motor is identical with the starting position thereof except that the plate` 18 is aligned to allow the top row of imaginary spaces to take respective positions behind the lens, as the horizontal frame moves to the left. In dropping the second and last time, the vertical frame carried the cam block, |41 away from switch closer,

thereby opening switch |40 and the circuit through the solenoids |04 and |38 and switches |40 and 05. Also the cam block |4| was moved to the point where it operates the switch closer and switch |54 closed.

Let it be `noted that switch |55 is so employed that it will operate with each rotation of the motor shaft 50. This switch |55 with switch |54, |00 (which closes Vwith the horizontal from in the ninth position) and switch will form a circuit through the double-throw maintaining contactor |51 causing it to throw. This action can occur only after the ninth picture is made because only then are switches |55, |54, |50 and l0 simultaneously closed.

When the double contactor |51 is thrown, it performs several functions. First, the signal light |04 is lighted to indicate a fully exposed plate,

second, the solenoid |14, Figure 8, is energized,

it being in parallel with the signal lamp |04, and

third, the circuit through the hand button 40 (Figure is broken thereby preventing a double exposure at position 0 if the operator fails to notice the signal lamp. The vpurpose of solenoid |14 is hereinafter explained.

It is found -desirable in'som'esituationso-indicate to the operator, of the camera the space on the plate which is before the lens. Accordinly, on the rear wall I4 of the camera are nine safe-colored bulls-eyes indicated, generally, at |05 and disposed, in rows of three, corresponding to the nine spaces on the plate, or at least so arranged as to correspond to the number and location of the spaces on theplate. Cooperating with these lenses is a safe-colored pilot lamp mounted on a suitable socket |01 on the horizontal frame. The pilot lamp |58 is surrounded by a tubular light funnel |00 whereby the light from the pilot lamp falls only on a single bulls-eye at each position. The relation of the'lamp on 'the horizontal frame and the vrelation of the bulls-eyes' are such that a bulls-eye is illuminated when the funnel is in register therewith at each position of rest assumed by the horizontal frame in its movement. This pilot lamp also indicates that current is ilowing into the mechanism for it lights when the main switch |59, Figure 10, is thrown on.

In the rembodiment of Figures 1-3, the verticalframe may be returned to initial position manually. 'y As shown, connecting rods |10 extend through openings in the top wall Il of the Abox and are j secured, at their lower ends, in any convenient,` fashion to the vertical frame. Preferably such rods |10 are formed with a shoulder |1| at the lowermost end thereof and pass through openings in a plate member |12 at the top and between the guides 01 so that after the vertical frame has been drawn upwardly to its uppermost position and latched-in that position bythe pawls |30, release of the handles |13 permits the rods |10 to slide downwardly again to the yposition indicated in Figure 1. The vertical frame-may, however, be returned to initial position automatically. One means of accomplishing this movement automatically is illustrated in. Figure 8. In throwing (after the ninth exposure) the double relay, as previously described, solenoidv |14 is energized, and the movement of'its armature through link ILS-causes toggle |16 to spread and allow rack `|11 to engage pinion |10 on the remote end of the motor shaft when viewed in Figure 1. Spring l1! breaks .toggle, raises the armature and ,returns the rack to broken line position when solenoid |14 is deenergized, as will be hereinafter described.

In moving to the right,` Figure 8, the rack |11 closes the switch |0| through the switch closer |02. Switch |0| short circuits the micro-switch 50, Figure 4, causing the energization of solenoid ||0 and removal of the detent ||4 from the escapement' Ill-H1, an action necessary to permit the horizontal frame to reset.

Push switch |01 may now be manually pressed to start the motor, which in turning through causes pinion |10 to climb rack |11, carrying with it the vertical and horizontal frames. Also in turning, the motor shaft allows rod 90 to slip through pivot 05 tending to compress spring |00. Spring |00, however, does not compressibecause the horizontal frame and the connecting arms are free to move by virtue of ,the detent |I4 being held down, as previously described) but pushes arm |00 to the left and the horizontal frame to the right. Both frames arrive, at the completion of 180 rotation of the motor shaft, at the initial position. Upon arriving at the top, the vertical frame is held by catches |00 and switch |04 closes a circuit which causes double 1j throw, maintaining contacter |51 to return to normal position, breaking the signal light circuit, deenergizing the solenoid |14, Figure 8, and remaking a circuit through the hand button 40. In deenergizing solenoid |14, the toggle |10 is broken and causes the rack to disengage the pinion |10, Figure 8, which, in turn, opens switch |0| allowing deenergization of solenoid ||0, Figure l, and the return of detent ||4 into notch H5. Theplate holder and plate may now be removed.

The motor, however, must then run through another 180 to reset the spring |05, that is, bring it under compression. This is accomplished' by cam block |41 returning to the position as seen in Figure l with the elevation of the vertical frame, and closing switch |85 through switch closer |00 to start the motor.

The motor 93 is of a type in which current supply isl through the primary |81 of a transformer |01, |00. Only when the secondary of said transformer is shorted will the current supply become suflicient to run the motor. This s horting is accomplished at three contacts |09, |00, |8| shown in the wiring diagram of Figure 10. The middle contact |08 and one outside contact |90 short the transformer (inside of the motor case) causing the motor to run. On the motor shaft and inside its case is a controlling switch |91 which breaks the transformer secondary circuit when the shaft has Cycle of operation Reference will now be had to Figures 1 and 10 for an understanding of the cycle of operation of the cameral of this invention. Let lit be as- I sumed that no photographic plate is in the camera, but thatthe camera is in focus, the operator having seen the object properly positioned on therground glass screen 19. A plate 18 in its 4dicate the position of the light with respect to lens 33.

holder 11 is then inserted through the doorway 8| into the horizontal frame 13;-15, and door 82 is closed. Main switch |59 is also closed. The photographerpresses the hand button 45 to commence the operation of the camera in this cycle. lThe closing of the switch energizes solenoid 44 which actuates the shutter.v VAlfter the shutter vhas operated, but in the same solenoid stroke,

the detent 55 engages the leaf spring 53 to close the switch 59 which completes the various circuits..

A convenience outlet is providedv which, when connected by theusual attachment plug 'and cord (not shown) to a source of electric curtrent, furnishes current for the entire circuit or circuits of Figure 10. The current supply is controlled, conveniently by means of the toggle switchV |69, being cut into the line through connection |96. f

, Circuit When switch |55 is closed, a pilot lamp |33 is illuminated, thecircuit being through |93 and |99. This lamp, as well as being a pilot lamp to indicate that the circuit is operative travels be hind the nine bulls-eyes |55 (Figure 5) to insensitive plate circuit 1i .Y

circuiting the control contacts 235 and 201. 1

This short circuiting occurs later in the cycle, as will be explained.

Circuit III Leads 201 and 20B are tapped into the main current supply 20|, 203 inside of the maintaining contactor |51, and, with the parts of the contactor |51 in the positionshown, form a circuit through the hand button and shutter solenoid I 44 bymeans of circuit closer 209 and connections l2|ll, 2H and 2|2, which circuit will be completed when the hand button 45 is operated, and the solenoid 44 energized. Energization of solenoid f 44 causes the shutter toopen'and close and im'- mediately thereafter (in the same stroke) causes v the switch 59 to make and break, as has been explained, by the lever arm 55, Figure 4.

Cireut IV When switch 59 is closed, the solenoid ||0 is energized through connections 2|3, 2|4 and leads 2|5, 2|5, 2|1, 2|3 (the continuation of the supply leads 200, 202). Each operation of solenoid Il@ causes the switch |55 to close, but no circuit is completed at this instant. That circuitA will be explained later.

The operation of solenoid ||0 causes, referring to Figure 1, armature arm ||2 and pawl Il to vdrop and free the horizontal frame forl movement. l This frame moves one space only for switch 59 was only momentarily closed and solenoid ||0 only momentarily energized.

To continue the cycle, the hand button`43 is again operated with.the resulting making and breaking of circuit IV and the ultimate movement of the horizontal frame another space to the third position. As the horizontal frame comes into this third position, it mechanically closes switch |33. vSwitch |43 is closed, due to the position of the vertical frame.

vCircuit V The neigt loperation of the hand button 45 causes soienoids |34 and |35 to operate because switches, |35 andA |43 now being closed, the solenoid |34 is connected in parallel to solenoid 0 through connections 2|9, 220, switch |43, switch |33 lead 22|, 222 and 35|. Solenoid |35 also operates, it being in parallel with solenoid |34 through connections 222, 223, 224 and 22i.

These two solenoids |34, |33 being momentarily energized, withdraw the latches and allow the vertical. frameto drop.V In dropping, switch |43 is opened and circuit No. V is broken. Thenext operation of the hand button 45 will energize only solenoid ||0 through circuit IV, as before explained. v f v Circuit VI YAlso when vertical frame drops, referring to Figure 1, switch closer |40 is operated bydetent |39 and switch |42 is closed. This closes a circuit through the motor transformer secondary |03 by connections 225, |39, |9|, |90. Thepri-A mary, now being satisfied, allows sumcient current to pass to operate the motor 93 which turns through and stops, being controlled by -the "automatic switch |91. In dropping, the vertical frame also clos switch |43 through cam, |41 acting thereon. No circuit is completed, however, until later in the cycle.

The operation of the hand button 43 two successive times, as before explained, will now allow the horizontalv frame to assume the successive positions 5 and 3. Arriving at position 3, the horizontal frame mechanically closes switch |49. Switch |43 is closed due to the position of the vertical frame..

' Circuit VII The next operation of hand button 45 again causes solenoids |34 and |33 to operate for switches |43 and |43, now being closed, the solenoid |35 is connected in parallel to solenoid ||0 through connections |94, |95, 223, 222 and 222s. The soienoids withdrawing the latches, the vertical frame again drops and in dropping, switch |49 is opened and circuit V11 broken. The next loperation of hand'but'ton 45 will energize only solenoid ||0 through circuit IV.

Also, when the vertical frame drops, referring to Figure 1, switch closer |5| is operated by detent |50 and switch |52 is closed. This again causes a circuit through motor transformer secondary |33 by connections 226, |9|, |89 and 221.

' The primary v|91 again is satisfied and motor runs through 180, bringing the automatic switch |92 to the irst position and stopping the motor 93.

In dropping, the vertical frame also closes switch |54 through cam |4| acting upon closer i |53. No circuit is completed, however, until later in the cycle.

Operation of the hand button 45 two ,times allows the horizontal frame to take positions 'B and 9 in sequence. Arriving at position 9, the horizontal frame mechanically closes switch |55. Switch |54 is closed due to the position of the vertical frame.

Circuit VIII It has beenfmentioned that switch |55 closes each time solenoid ||3 is energized. As the sole# noid ||3 is energized each time the hand button 45 is pressed, the switch |55 closes immediately the motor.

after. the ninth exposure is made. Switch is connected in series with switch |55 and switch |54 and the double contacter |51 control con-y tacts 255 and 251s through connections 255. nl, m and m. as can be seen uns eli-milt merely shorts the contacts 255 and 251s.

Circuit IX However. inside of the contacter |51, a circuit is closed through the secondary 255 of its transformer through connections 255, coil 255,1eon- Inections 255 and 245. 'Ihis circuit energises the electromagnet 255, thereby causing the contacto!I to operate.

Circuit X In the operation of the contactor the arm 242y Circuit XI In operating, contactor |51 broke circuit III because of the changed position of the arm 255.

.Ilichnsinarm 20S lsoclased a, new circuit.

241, solenoid |14, connections 245, 255, 255, 252,"

current supply, connections 255, 20|, 2/51 and arm 205. 'Ihe signal lamp |54 is also lighted, it being connected in parallel with'solenoid |14 through connections 252 and'255.

Solenoid |14 being energized, the rack |11, Fig. 8, engages pinion |15 and closes switch |5| by means oi the switch closer |52.k

Circuit XII Switch |5I, when closed, performs the same duty as the micro-switch 55 in the shutter mechanism and closes circuit IV allowing solenoid ||0 to draw detent ||4, Figure 1, from the horizontal frame escapement ||5, ||5, ||1. There being no potential thrust on either side oi arm |50, the horizontal i'rame does not move as yet but all is in readiness-for the resetting operation which occurs with the energlzation of Circuit XIII Manual push button or circuit closer |55 is for the purpose of eilectingv energization of the motor and, upon being pressed momentarily, forms a motor energizing circuit through connections 254, 225, |59, |90, |52 and 255. 'I'he motor turns through 180, raising the vertical i'rame and pushing the horizontal frame to initial position. The vertical frame carries switch |54 which, when the vertical frame reaches initial position is closed by pressure against the case-top I5.

Switch |54 in closing, shorts the transformer 204, 205, in the contacter |51 through connections 256, 251, 240, 25| and 255. The circuit including coil 235 being short circuited, the arms 209 and 242 return to their initial position through the action of spring 250 again closing the hand button circuit III, deenergizing solenoid |14 and extinguishing signal lamp |54. In deenergizing, solenoid |14 allowed rack 11, Figure 8, to disenga'ge from pinionl |15 and the vertical frame, being no longer elevated, settles onto catches |50. Also in returning toinitial position, the rack |11 opened switch |5I, which allowed detult. ||4 to reengage the horizontal frame escapement to prevent the horizontal frame from moving as the motor 55 continues to run.

Circuit XV Normally the motor 55 stops at 180 but, it being necessary to build potential thrust on the spring 55 to completely reset the mechanism, the switch |55 is closed by cam block |41 and closer |55 when the vertical frame is elevated. Switch |55 maintains the motor circuit through connections 25l, 225, III, 55, |55, 225 and 225s. 'I'he motor then stops in original pomtion after turningthmllhlwandthemechanmmisready for another complete cycle.

Circuit XVI The motor is constantly connected to the main current supply through connections 255, primary ot transformer |51-|55, lead 255, the armature 55, lead 255 and lead 254 to the current sunily 2|5-2I5. Wheneverthe motor operates, a signal lamp |55 burns to warn the operator against making any exposure, it being desirable that the thrust be completely bui/lt up before' horizontal motion oi' the frame is started.

Circuit XVII maf-a 'new f rel with the motor amature through connections 255, 255, 255, 215 and 255 and receives current only when it is supplied to the motor amature: It will thus be seenthat a camera has been provided which is capable ot the sequential taking oi a plurality of pictures compactly on a single plate or iilm wherein it is only necessary, after the camera has been loaded and the electrical circuit as a whole, therein, energized, for the operator t`o press Ya. button each time an exposure is to be made. The movement of the relativelymovable frames as the several exposures are made eilfects the' energization of various circuits whereby subsequent movements oi' the frame are effected and the return of the frames to initial position for insertion and removal of la, film holder being automatically effected by the parts at the different positions of Various modincations will occur to those skilled in the art in the composition, coniiguration and disposition of the component elements goingto make up the invention as a whole as well as in the selection and utilization oi' various oi the component elements to meet conditions, and no limitation is intended by the'phraseology of the foregoing specification or illustrationsvin the accompanying drawings except as indicated in the appended claims.

What is claimed is:

l. In a camera, the combination with a lens behind which a nlm is movable to bring predetermined areas of the illm at the focusof the lens, of a masking tunnel disposed between the lens and the illm, a' ilapmovable from an unmasking position to a position closing at least part oi' the tunnel opening, a counterweight carried with said ilap and ixed cam means to raise the counterweight at one position of the lm.

2.,In a camera, the combination with a lens behind which a iilm is movable to bring predetermined areas of the iilm at the focus of the lens, o; a masking tunnel, rectangular in crom-sectioh, disposed between the lens and 'a iilm, a

ilap, carried by the tunnel and movable from an Y unmsking position to a position closing at least part of the tunnel opening, an arm carried with said flap. a counterweight on the arm and fixed cam means to raise the counterweight at one position of the illm.

3. Ina camera, the combination with a lens behind which a lm is movable to bring predetermined'areas of the lm at the focus of the lens, of a masking tunnel, rectangular in cross- 'section disposed between the lens and the iilm, clips on opposite sides of one edge of the tunnel, a iiap carried bythe clips and movable from an unmasking position to a position closing at least part of the tunnel opening, an arm carried with said nap, a counterweight on the arm and fixed cam means to raise the counterweigllt.

4. In a camera, the combination with a camera box and av lens, of meansV to selectively position predetermined areas'ot a film behind the lens, one wall of the'b'ox being formed with aplurality of apertures corresponding toa `'number and location oi said diierent positions of 'the'film, bulls-eyes closing the apertures, respectively, a light carried with the positioning means and movable thereby to predetermined positions to selectively register with an aperture, a shield surrounding the light to confine said light on a desired aperture.

5. In a camera, the combination with a camera box and a lens, of means to selectively position predetermined areas of a film behind e, the lens, one wall of said box being formed with a plurality of apertures corresponding to the number and location of said different positions of the iilm,.bull'seyes closing the apertures, respectively,'and a light carried with the. positioning means and movable thereby to predetermined positions to selectively register with an aperture.

6'. In a camera, the combination with a camera box and a lens, of means to selectively position predetermined areas of aiilm behind the lens, one wall of said box being -formed with a plurality 'of apertures corresponding to the number and location of said diiferent positions of the film, a light carried with the positioning means and movable thereby to predetermined positions to selectively register with an aperture and a shield surrounding the light to confine said light on av desired aperture.

7. In a camera, the combination with a camera box and a lens, of means to selectively position predetermined areas of a lm behind the lens, one wall 'of said box being formed with a plurality ot apertures corresponding to the number and location of said different positions of the film and a light carried with the positioning means and movable thereby to predetermined vpositions to selectively register with an aperture.`

8. In a camera, the combination with a camera box and a lens, of means to selectively position predetermined areas of a iilm behind the lens, one wall of the box being formed with a plurality of apertures corresponding to the number and location of said diierent positions oi the iiim, bullseyes closing the apertures, respectively, a lamp carried with the positioning means and movable thereby to predetermined positions to selectively register with an aperture, a shield surrounding the light to conine said light on a desired aperture, an electrical circuit comprising a plurality of branch circuits, one oi' said branches including said lamp and a circuit closure adapted to open the complete circuit.

9. In a camera, in combination, a lens, a shutter, shutter actuating mechanism, an electrical circuit comprising a member movable with the shutter and reciprocable in a predetermined path and a switch the actuating member of'which is disposed in the path of the movable member, said movable member having a pivoted arm constrained to engage and actuate the actuating member in one direction of its movement but free forv displacement when moving in the opposite direction to ride past the actuating member.

10. In a camera, the combination with a lens, of a shutter, shutter actuating mechanism, an electrical circuit comprising a member movable with the shutter and reciprocable in a predetermined path and a switch the actuating member ofY which is disposed ln the path of the movable member.

11. In a camera, the combination with a lens, a shutter, shutterA actuating mechanism, an electrical circuit comprising af solenoidv actuating said 'shutter mechanism; a member movable with *the shutter and reciprocable in a predetermined path and a switch the actuating member of which is disposed in the path of the movable member.

12. In-a camera, the combination with a lens, a shutter, shutter actuating mechanisms, an electrical circuit comprising a solenoid actuating said shutter mechanism,.a member movable with the shutter and reciprocable in a predetermined path and a switch the actuating member of which is disposed in the path of the movable member, said movable member having means constrained to engage and actuate the actuating member in one direction of its movementv but free for displacement when moving in the opposite direction to ride past the actuating member.

13. In a camera, an electrically actuated shutter comprising a shutter actuating plunger, a lever, extensible means connecting one arm of the lever to the plunger, a solenoid connected to the other arm of the lever and means to energize the shutter.

14. In a camera, an electrically actuated shutter comprising means to actuate said shutter for time exposure comprising reciprocable member, a manually actuated bell crank extensible means connecting-the bell crank with the reciprocable member, means to actuate said shutter for instantaneous exposure comprising a second reciprocable member, a lever, an electrical circuit comprising a circuit closer and a solenoid, and extensible means connecting the second reciprocableymember with one arm of the lever, the other arm of the lever being connected with the solenoid. l

15. In a camera, the combination with a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism, of a. frame reciprocable in one direction behind the lens, and having means formed with guides fora second frame and asecond frame reciprocable in said guides in another direction behind the-lens, one oi said frames comprising means to removably support a film holder.

16. In a camera, the combination with a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism, of a frame vertically movable behind the lens, and having means formed with horizontal guides for a second frame, a second frame horizontally movable in said guides behind the lens, said second frame comprising means to removably support a film holder.

17. In la camera., the combination with a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism, of a frame reciprocable in one direction behind the lens, a second frame reciprocable on the first frame in another direction behind the lens and comprising means to removably support a lm holder, power storing means to move one frame with respect to the other and pawl and ratchet means to position predetermined areas of the lm holder behind the lens.

18. In a camera, the combination with a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism,-of a frame reciprocable in one direction behind the lens, a second frame reciprocable on the rst frame in another direction behind the lens and comprising means to removably support a lm holder, power storing means to move one frame with respect to the other, pawl and ratchet means carried with the respective frames to position predetermined areas of the lm holder behind the lens, electrical solenoid means to actuate said pawl and ratchet means, a circuit closer actuated by the shutter and a circuit comprising said electric solenoid means and said shutter actuated circuit closer,

19. In a camera, the combination with a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism, vof a frame reciprocable in one direction behind the lens, a frame reciprocable in another direction behind the lens, one of said frames comprising means to removably support a film holder, power storing means to move one frame with respect to the other, means carried with the respective frames to position predetermined areas of the film holder behind the lens, electrical means to actuate said positioning means, a circuit closer actuated by theshutter, a circuit comprising said electric means and said shutter actuated circuit closer, gravity means to position one of the frames in different vertical positions with respect to the lens electrical circuits comprising electrical means to actuate said gravity means and circuit closers in said circuit closed by one o'f the frames to energize the solenoids.

20. In a camera, the combination with a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism, of a frame reciprocable in one direction behind the lens, a frame reciprocable in another direction behind the lens, one of said frames comprising means to removably support a lm holder, means comprising power storing means and a motor having a predetermined movement to store up power in the power storing means to move one frame with respect to the other, said motor being carried by one frame, pawl and ratchet means carried with the respective frames to position predetermined areas of the lm holder behind the lens, electrical solenoid means to actuate said pawl and ratchet means, a circuit closer actuated by the shutter, a circuit comprising said electric solenoid means and said shutter actuated circuit closer, means to position one of the frames in diierent vertical positions with respect to the lens, electrical circuits comprising electrical solenoid means to actuate said positioning means and circuit closers in said circuit closed by one of the frames to energize the solenoids.

21. In a camera, the combination with a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism, of a frame reciprocable in one direction behind the lens,` and having means formed with horizontal guides for another frame, a frame reciprocable in another direction behind the lens, one of said frames comprising means to removably support a nlm holder, means to move one frame with respect to the other, pawl and ratchet means carried with the respective frames to position predetermined areas of the hlm holder behind the lens, electrical means to actuate said pawl and ratchet means, a circuit closer actuated by the shutter, a circuit comprising said electric solenoid means and said shutter actuated circuit closer, means to position one of the frames in diierent vertical positions with respect to the lens, electrical circuits comprising electrical solenoid means to actuate said last named positioning means, circuit closers in said circuit closed by one of the frames to energize the solenoids and electrical means to return said frames to initial position comprising circuit closing means actuated/by the last moved frame during its nal movement.

22. In a camera, the combination with a pair f relatively movable frames, means comprising a crank having a predetermined movement and power storing means to move one frame with respect to the other, comprising a rod connected at one end to the motor crank, a sleeve reciprocable on the rod, a lever pivoted on one frame, the ends of which are connected to the other frame and to the sleeve, respectively, expansible springs on the rod engaging opposite sides of the sleeve, respectively, and stops for the free ends of the springs.

23. In a camera,` the combination with a case, a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism, of a frame reciprocable in one direction behind the lens, a frame reciprocable in another direction behind the lens, one of said frames comprising means to removably support a lrn holder, means to position predetermined areas of the film holder behind the lens, said case provided with a door in register with the lm holder for removal and insertion thereof only at initial position of both frames.

24. In a camera, the combination with a lens system, a shutter and shutter actuating mechanism, of -a frame reciprocable in one direction behind the lens, a frame reciprocable in another direction behind the lens, one of said frames comprising means to removably support a film holder, electrical means to move one frame with respect to the other, electrical means to position predetermined areas of the lm holder behind the lens, a circuit closer actuated by the shutter, a circuit comprising said electric solenoid means and said shutter actuated circuit closer, electrical means to position one of the frames in different vertical positions with respect to the lens, electrical circuits comprising said electrical means and circuit closers in said circuits closed by the frames, means to deenergize all circuits at the last position of said frames and means to energize said circuits at initial position of the frames.

25. In a camera, the combination with a lens behind which a film is movable to bring predetermined areas of the lm at the focus of the lens, of a masking tunnel disposed between the lens and the lm and a ap disposed between the lens and the iilm and movable from an unmasking position exposing the lm to the entire area of the masking tunnel to a position intercepting light rays passing through the tunnel from the lens and falling on a predetermined area of the lm.

FRANK G. KIRBY. ARTHUR E. IRVING.

CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION. Patent No. 2,172,285. September 5, 1959.

FRANK G. KIRBY, ET AL.

It is hereby certified that er'rorappears 1n the printed specification of the above numbered patent requiring correction as follows.: Page h, second column', line 5, for "as" read has; page 5, first column, line 15, for

the word "from" read frame; and that the said Letters Patent should berend with lthis correction therein that the same may conform to the record ofthe case in the Patent Office.

signed and sealed this 10th day of october-f, A. D.' 1959.

Henry Van Arsdale,

(Seal) Acting Commissioner of Patents. 

